Easter is shaping up to be a major spending event, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1004 respondents reveals more than half (55%) of respondents – equivalent to 12 million people – plan to celebrate Easter.
The average Australian plans to spend $1556 on chocolate, food, eating out and travel, totalling $4.8 billion over the festivities.
The research finds 12% of respondents plan on travelling over the long-weekend, forking out $1005 on average for flights and accommodation.
Almost one in four (22%) intend to entertain guests, with spending on food and decorations expected to reach $683 million.
Instead of hosting, 18% of respondents will dine out instead, spending $139 per person – up 10% from last year.
Almost half of the surveyed Australians (49%) plan to indulge, spending $68 on Easter chocolates, a national total of $710 million. A further 8% will spend $116 on Easter-themed clothing such as novelty pyjamas.
Sarah Megginson, money expert at Finder, says Australians are set to spend big this Easter.
“Easter continues to put pressure on our budgets, and it’s prompting many Australians to rethink their Easter plans,” she says.
“The cost of cocoa has skyrocketed in the last 12 months, largely driven by a mould infestation in Africa that has hugely impacted supply.
“Everyday Aussies are noticing the huge increase in the price of Easter eggs, which means Easter might look a little different this year.”